Dr. Mary Clifford

I am a New York Licensed Psychologist with over 25 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families. I earned my dual Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and School Psychology; Masters in Education; and a Masters in Counseling Psychology. As a Psychologist, I have worked in both private practice and school settings, giving me a unique perspective on the challenges people face across different stages of life. Before founding my group practice, Manhattan Psychological Services, I served as a School Psychologist, Administrator, Adjunct Professor, and Head of Health and Wellness programs in Independent Schools.

In my practice, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, grief, life transitions, and relationship concerns. I work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and parents, tailoring therapy to meet the individual needs of each client. My approach blends evidence-based treatments with compassion, helping clients build coping skills, develop self-awareness, and create meaningful change in their lives.

On a personal note, as a Parent, Daughter, Sister, Partner and Friend, I understand how overwhelming life’s demands can feel, and how we all need a place to feel validated, heard, supported and empowered. I have a deep passion in providing my patients this space. My mission is to provide hope, healing, and lasting tools for well-being so that clients can live with more clarity, connection, and purpose.

My approach to therapy is rooted in both science and compassion. I believe in meeting each client where they are, using a highly individualized process that blends evidence-based practices with warmth and understanding. Together, we focus on building resilience, deepening self-awareness, and developing practical tools that support meaningful growth and lasting change.

In our first session, you can expect a welcoming space where we focus on getting to know you and what brought you to therapy. I’ll ask about your current concerns, your background, and your goals, but there’s no pressure to share more than you feel comfortable with. This session is about starting to build a trusting relationship, learning about your unique needs, and giving you a sense of how we might work together. By the end, we’ll begin outlining a plan tailored to you, so you leave with a clearer idea of the next steps in your journey.